LaRena Eloise Taylor

TAYLOR, LARENA ELOISE (SPECHT), 85, born October 21, 1938 in Portland, OR to Dr Walter and Velma (Fish) Specht, died January 24, 2024 in Marietta, GA. She graduated from LaSierra high school, then graduated with an RN degree from Loma Linda University in 1959. That same year she married Dr. Arvin Taylor who had just completed dental training at Loma Linda University; they were married on the La Sierra campus by her father Dr. Walter Specht. Arvin and LaRena immediately moved to Morristown, TN where they started a dental practice and joined the Morristown Seventh Day Adventist Church where she was a member for the rest of her life. She was extremely active in the church serving as church treasurer for more than 2 decades as well as serving on both church and school boards for many years. LaRena had a beautiful singing voice and led out in the church music program. Arvin and LaRena had four children while living in Morristown; all of her children followed in her footsteps obtaining various degrees in healthcare. She was a devoted wife and mother, well known for her vivacious personality and infectious laugh. She was a ferocious scrabble player (well represented by her surviving children!), as well as a very competitive tennis player. In her later years she and Arvin enjoyed extensive travel. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 21, 2009, at the Sundial in Knoxville, TN. She is survived by her husband, four children Trissa Lovell (Dr. David), Dr. Gregory Taylor (Jasmine), Vicky Pyfrom (Geno) and Kevin Taylor (Shelby), a brother (Dr. Daryl Specht), 14 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. She departed this life surrounded by her children. She is now resting peacefully awaiting Jesus’ return when she will be restored to health and reunited with her loved ones. A Memorial Service, to honor and celebrate the life of LaRena Taylor, will be held 11:00am, Sunday, February 18, The Collegedale Church 4829 Collegedale Drive, Collegedale, Tn. 37315